If staining a tablecloth isn’t a concern, halve a few of the pomegranates and display their jewel-like seeds in small bowls. The insides of figs are also lovely, with a delicate yellow rind and rosy pulp, so halve a few of those, too.

Place fresh cranberries and spare evergreen trimmings in a clear, unadorned glass jar, fill it with water and float tea lights on top. Wrap spare, empty boxes in gift paper and make piles of presents in the corners of the room, on a sideboard or credenza.